Tips for Getting Pregnant After 35

Understand the Impact of Age on Fertility

Today, 35 isn’t what it used to be. A few decades ago it was a time to prepare for middle age; now it’s the time of life where women can be climbing the corporate ladder and starting a family all at the same time. If you’re applying for the title of mom, these tips can help you build your resume:

When you were born, you had a finite number of eggs. In your 30s, you’ve already expelled a significant number of eggs. According to the Mayo Clinic, you may not have as many high-quality eggs, which can inhibit your ability to easily conceive. This simply means that it can take longer to get pregnant, but it doesn’t make it impossible. If you have been trying to get pregnant for six months, but have not been successful, make an appointment with your OB-GYN. Most couples conceive within a year of trying, but the Mayo Clinic suggests couples where the woman is 35 or older should talk with a doctor if she isn’t pregnant within six months.

Develop a Support System

Chat with other older moms or women you know who are your age and trying to conceive.

It can help you to rely on these women for support, as being around a bunch of extremely fertile 25-year-old women can be frustrating at times. According to Womenshealth.gov, stress can have an impact on your ability to get pregnant. Build a network of friends who you can talk with, ask questions and rely on when you need it. Include your family, your doctor and your partner in your network of support, as they can all help you along the way during your conception journey.

Start Charting and Discover Your Fertile Window

Most women are only fertile a few days each month, usually during the time of ovulation. Women older than 35 may not ovulate each month, so it’s important to chart your ovulation cycle to know your personal fertile window. While you can use a Basal Body Thermometer or pen and paper to do this, you also can use a First Response ovulation calculator to quickly and easily determine your fertile window. You’re most likely to get pregnant two to three days before ovulation, and 12 to 24 hours after, according to WomensHealth.gov.

Make Personal Health a Priority

While you may be focused on getting to your OB-GYN’s office to talk about pregnancy-related topics, keep up with your other general health appointments at the same time.

Make sure your body is in good shape, as it will ensure both you and your baby are happy and healthy throughout your pregnancy. Web MD notes that women 35 years or older should go for routine physicals to make sure their blood pressure is under control. Also visit your dentist for regular exams and cleanings, as healthy teeth and gums lessens the chance of pre-term birth and low birth weight babies, according to Web MD.

Exercise and Nutrition

If fast food has become your snack of choice and exercise isn’t high on your to-do list, it might be time to take another look at your daily routine. According to Web MD, it’s essential to exercise regularly, eat a well-balanced diet that is rich in nutrients and quit drinking and smoking before you get pregnant. This will make sure your body is in its best shape ever, which may increase your chances of getting pregnant sooner rather than later.